I wrote this book primarily for people like me: people living in the Syrian diaspora, unable to return to their ancestral homeland, who are in deep pain and grieving the beloved people, places, and heritage that have been lost and that continue to be lost every day. ~ Zeyn Joukhadar
This is truly a remarkable debut novel! Although the authors note states that she's Syrian American, and has never lived in Syria, roots clearly bleed true and hers are undeniably thrust deeply into the fabric of her ancestral country. The way she chose to draw attention to the plight of Syrian refugees was unique and compelling. Creating a dual timeline, with the narrator of the current timeline being a child was a fantastic perspective.
The timeline from 800 years past tho was genius. It was presented as somewhat of a fairytale & I didn't understand until I finished reading, that so many characters in this section were real historical figures. It's told from the perspective of another girl, this one on a quest, battling fantastical creatures and exuding bravery & intuition beyond her years. The two timelines are connected by stars, maps, mapmakers, and geography. Rawiya is an apprentice to Al-Idrisi, a real, legendary mapmaker who made the most accurate maps of the world at that date. They remained relevant for over 300 years. He was funded in his task by King Roger II of Sicily (another real person) and once you know this, it makes the story even more fascinating to follow.
It's also easier to understand the book once you get that it's divided into five sections (each section devoted to a country in both girls journeys) and each of the five sections contains a part of the story from the current and historical timeline. I'm such a Westerner, I really wish I knew the geography of the Middle East better than I do. As much as this book is about maps and mapmakers, why isn't there a map of the region included??? Maybe there is if you buy an actual copy of the book but I downloaded mine and didn't see it. I'm definitely going back to google tho so I can truly understand the undertaking they embarked on or were forced into.
Another point of interest: (for every mystery lover/treasure seeker out there) King Roger II actually commissioned a silver planisphere as referenced in the story, and no one has ever discovered what happened to it. Don't you hope it's still tucked away somewhere, waiting to be stumbled upon...
There are many interesting side elements incorporated into the book and the authors personal interest in stars is among them. There's also a lot of additional information about her at the end of the book & it's worth reading to gain insight into the books conception, the title and why particular things were included. After finishing 'The Map of Salt and Stars' there's no doubt in my mind that Zeyn Joukhadar has a wonderful imagination, an inquiring mind and a gift for storytelling.
One final thing, can I just say the title & cover are awesome too?!!
No hesitation whatsoever to recommend this book. It's a beautiful melding of historical fiction, current day events, and fantasy.
Comments